Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with some fiery flavors? Then get ready for a culinary adventure as we dive into the world of spicy jerk chicken! This Caribbean-inspired dish is a staple in many cuisines, and when done right, it can elevate any meal to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering jerk chicken recipes that will make your taste buds do the reggae.
From classic Jamaican-style jerk chicken to innovative twists like jerk chicken tacos and quesadillas, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a grill master or a slow-cooker enthusiast, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, let’s get started on this spicy journey!
Classic Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic jerk chicken recipe, featuring the intense heat of Scotch bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and rub the jerk mixture all over, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Jerk Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of grilled pineapple and fresh cilantro, creating a mouthwatering summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and pineapple juice.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill the pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. To make the salsa, combine grilled pineapple, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
7. Serve the grilled chicken thighs with the Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Jerk Chicken with Allspice and Thyme
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this slow-cooked jerk chicken recipe, infused with warm allspice and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, allspice, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
5. Pour in chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
6. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Serve: With your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables.
Jerk Chicken Skewers with Mango Glaze
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and colorful jerk chicken skewers smothered in a sweet and tangy mango glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, garlic, and olive oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, honey, soy sauce, and lime juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
6. Brush glaze over grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these flavorful oven-baked jerk chicken drumsticks! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle the jerk seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Wings with Honey Lime Drizzle
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these mouthwatering jerk chicken wings paired with a sweet and tangy honey lime drizzle. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings and toss until coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice.
7. Remove wings from oven and brush with the honey lime drizzle.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Enjoy your delicious jerk chicken wings with honey lime drizzle!
Jerk Chicken and Coconut Rice Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this vibrant dish that combines spicy jerk chicken with creamy coconut rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Chopped scallions and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using coconut milk instead of water.
6. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve jerk chicken on top of coconut rice, garnished with scallions and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
This Caribbean-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the crispy texture of tacos, all wrapped up with a tangy kick from pickled red onions. Perfect for a unique twist on taco Tuesday!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled Red Onions (see below)
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and avocado for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced jerk chicken, pickled red onions, radishes, cilantro, and avocado.
Pickled Red Onions:
– Slice 1 large red onion thinly
– Combine with 1/2 cup lime juice and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl
– Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Pizza with Plantain and Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of Caribbean flavors, featuring jerk chicken, sweet plantains, and melted cheese. This savory treat is perfect for a flavorful dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix jerk seasoning and chicken; set aside.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Brush with olive oil.
4. Top dough with jerk chicken, plantain slices, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken Salad with Avocado and Citrus Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the bold flavors of jerk chicken, creamy avocado, and a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for a refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brush mixture on chicken breasts.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and diced avocado.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice and honey. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
7. Add jerk chicken to the salad and toss gently to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jerk Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your burger game with the bold flavors of Jamaica! This Jerk Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo is a Caribbean-inspired twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and a slice of grilled chicken.
7. Mix mayonnaise and sriracha sauce for Spicy Mayo.
8. Spread Spicy Mayo on top of the burger.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
Add a Caribbean twist to your stir-fry game with this flavorful and spicy Jerk Chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and aromatic jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, jerk seasoning, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until coated with the jerk mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering Jerk Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch. This harmonious blend of spices and sweetness will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chicken from marinade, placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and onion in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve jerk chicken atop roasted sweet potato hash, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jerk Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese
Add a flavorful twist to the classic quesadilla with this recipe that combines spicy jerk chicken, melted pepper jack cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and chicken breasts. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Add the jerk chicken on top of the cheese, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot with additional cilantro and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Nachos with Black Beans and Corn
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of Caribbean and Mexican flavors! This recipe combines spicy jerk chicken, creamy black beans, sweet corn, and crispy tortilla chips for a flavor explosion that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange tortilla chips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Grill or bake chicken according to package instructions, then slice into strips.
7. In a separate pan, heat black beans and corn over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
8. Assemble nachos by placing tortilla chips on a plate, topping with jerk chicken, black bean and corn mixture, and shredded cheese.
9. Garnish with cilantro and jalapeño slices (if using).
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
A Caribbean-inspired curry that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the creaminess of coconut milk and the comfort of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform your dinner routine with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers. Succulent jerk chicken, sweet bell peppers, and savory spices come together for a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tsp jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, jerk seasoning, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, onion, garlic, and cooked rice.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful fusion of Caribbean jerk seasoning and Asian-inspired fried rice, this dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning with 1 tsp olive oil; brush on chicken breast.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
6. Add cooked rice and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add diced pineapple and cooked chicken; stir-fry for an additional minute.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Meatballs with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with these addictive Jerk Chicken Meatballs served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, jerk seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve with Jerk Chicken Meatballs.
Jerk Chicken Wrap with Mango Chutney
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica in this delicious wrap! Spicy jerk chicken, crunchy veggies, and sweet mango chutney come together for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup mango chutney (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breast, jerk seasoning, and cilantro.
3. Place the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat the tortilla in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it pliable.
5. Assemble the wrap by placing the chicken, lettuce, bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using) onto the tortilla.
6. Drizzle mango chutney over the top and fold the tortilla to enclose.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your grilling game with these 20 mouthwatering jerk chicken recipes! From classic Jamaican-style dishes to creative twists and international inspirations, this collection has something for every taste. Discover how to make everything from succulent chicken thighs with pineapple salsa to bold tacos with pickled red onions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating flavorful jerk chicken dishes that are sure to impress. So go ahead and fire up your grill – it’s time to get saucy!
